ADA, Oklahoma -- More than 1,000 frames will be on display at the newly opened Oklahoma Optical retail space, 1226 North Hills, in North Hills Centre. Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby led ceremonies opening the new location Thursday morning.

Gov. Anoatubby said that the new location, which serves the general public and Chickasaw citizens, will lead to more job opportunities.

“Opening this more convenient retail location should increase customer volume,” said Gov. Anoatubby. “As we expand, we anticipate additional increases in employment opportunities. It is exciting to improve services for citizens and contribute to the local economy at the same time.”

Chris Anoatubby, Chickasaw Nation Under Secretary, Tribal and Commercial Health, said the new facility will help the business better serve customers in Ada and across the state.

“We want the best possible customer experience and with our increasing business, we outgrew our former location,” Under Secretary Anoatubby said. “Our new 1,200 square foot retail store offers a much larger showroom designed with an updated, contemporary style offering expanded frame choices in a location that’s more convenient for our customers.”

Opening the new location will allow for more retail space as well as expansion of the lab on Country Club Road. Oklahoma Optical will convert the previous retail and laboratory location in Ada to a stand-alone lab, increasing services for customers with production and technology to lower costs even more.

Expansion of the lab will include the addition of an anti-reflective coating machine, making the Ada location the only lab in Oklahoma capable of producing the name brand Crizal coating.

Once expansion is complete, wait time for glasses with this coating will be reduced from a minimum of 10 to 12 days to no more than four days.

Oklahoma Optical has a long history in Ada. Previously located on Townsend Street, it was operated by optician Floyd Gurley for almost 30 years before being purchased by the Chickasaw Nation.

In 2003, the Chickasaw Nation purchased the business from Mr. Gurley. In 2007, the lab and retail spaces were moved into one location on the campus of the Carl Albert Health facility.

“With one stop, customers can choose the perfect frames and select from the same lens options as those offered at bigger companies, but at less cost. At Oklahoma Optical, we deliver the same high quality product at a much reduced price because we have the technology and expertise to craft the lenses right here in Ada,” Under Secretary Anoatubby said, adding that Oklahoma Optical is offering 25 percent discounts through the end of August to celebrate the opening.

For information about the Oklahoma Optical annual end of summer Back to School Sale or the new retail location, call (580) 332-2796.

Oklahoma Optical also has locations in Ardmore, Tishomingo and Norman.